HPV test

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An HPV test detects certain human papillomaviruses (HPVs), depending on the test. Certain types of sexually transmitted HPVs can cause cervical cancer. Persistent infection with one or more of about a dozen "high-risk" HPV types is an important factor in nearly all cases of cervical cancer. The development of HPV-induced cervical cancer is a slow process that generally takes many years. During this development phase, pre-cancerous cells can be detected by annual or semi-annual cervical cytology screening or "Pap test." More recently a method for detecting the DNA of high-risk HPVs has been added to the range of clinical options for cervical cancer screening. The US FDA has approved this "hybrid-capture" test, marketed by Digene, for use as an alternative or adjunct to Pap testing.

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